Official Welcome as IC11 set to go

Friday morning saw the Captains media launch and Friday night saw the Official Welcome for the 4th AFL International Cup.

Nearly 1000 players and officials gathered in the Crystal Palace at Luna Park beside Sydney's famous Harbour Bridge. Shanell Dargun (also playing for the Australian women's side) started proceedings with the Australian national anthem. A traditional indigenous Australian welcome was followed by speeches from AFL General Manager of National and International Game Development David Matthews, AFL Commissioner Sam Mostyn, IC11 Ambassador Brett Kirk and South Africa's Mtutu Hlomela. As is becoming an International Cup tradition, there were impromptu cultural performances by South Africa, Tonga, Peace Team.

The night also included a recorded message from Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard, a well known Western Bulldogs supporter.